Reverence towards nature, awareness towards science and change in lifestyle is the path to environmental protection: Swami Chidanand Saraswati
Rishikesh. Increasing air pollution and deteriorating water quality of rivers is not only an environmental challenge but is also a serious question related to human health, quality of life and the future of future generations. On one hand, micro pollutants dissolved in breath are increasing the concern, while on the other hand, the flow of polluted water in life-giving rivers is raising questions on the ecological health of the river. This is the time to connect our ancient reverence towards nature with modern science, effective system and public participation.
Parmarth Peethadhishwar, Swami Chidanand Saraswati gave the message that “Nature is not our property, it is our heritage; rivers are not a means of our convenience, they are the cornerstone of life and clean air is not a luxury, it is every one of our rights.”
Swami said that in Sanatan culture, worshiping nature means protecting it. Calling rivers as mothers is meaningful only when we protect their water from pollution. Considering air as life is meaningful only when we take responsibility at the individual and collective level to stop the activities that poison it. Worship and environmental protection are not separate, but two dimensions of the same vision of life. Remember, filth and worship, worship and pollution cannot go together.
Inadequately treated sewage in rivers, polluted water coming from drains, solid waste and industrial waste are important factors increasing the problems of the river. Its solution cannot be limited to cleaning river banks only. Effective operation of sewage treatment plants, control of drain pollution, monitoring of industrial effluents and regular public reporting of water quality are essential.
Swami said that service to rivers is not just a religious ritual, but a pledge to keep the water clean, not throw garbage in the river and work continuously for the revival of the river.
Indian scriptures give the message of coexistence with nature. The proclamation of Ishavasyo Upanishad “Ishavasyamidam Sarvam” makes one see divinity in the entire creation. Prithvi Sukta of Atharvaveda awakens the feeling of considering the earth as mother and oneself as her child. This vision gives us the message that conservation of nature is not an optional task, but our moral and social responsibility. Swamy called upon every citizen to bring small but impactful changes in their lives, use water and energy judiciously, avoid single-use plastic, segregate waste, use public transport and take active participation in protecting trees and water sources.
Swamy’s message is that protecting the environment is not the job of any one department, institution or individual; This is a test of our collective consciousness. Only when faith makes us sensitive to nature, science gives us solutions, and civic engagement puts those solutions into practice will change be lasting.